3SB 15 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3SB 15 is a 15A 125VAC glass cartridge fuse manufactured by Bel Fuse Inc., designed for use with 3AB and 3AG fuse holders. This component provides overcurrent protection in AC and DC circuits with a slow-blow response characteristic. The main part (3SB 15) is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent parts essential for ongoing system maintenance and new designs. The substitute part 3SB 15-R maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications while offering active product status and improved compliance certifications.

Substiute Parts

3SB 15

Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 8473SB 15 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3SB 15-R

Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 130873SB 15-R Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The 3SB 15-R serves as a direct substitute for the 3SB 15 based on matching electrical and mechanical parameters. Substitution is valid when the following criteria are met:

• Current Rating: 15 A (identical)
• Voltage Rating: 125 V AC (identical)
• Fuse Type: Cartridge, Glass (identical)
• Response Time: Slow Blow (identical)
• Package / Case: 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" (identical)
• Breaking Capacity: 10 kA (identical)
• Melting I²t: 2123 (identical)
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C ~ 125°C (identical)
• DC Cold Resistance: 0.006 Ohms (identical)

The 3SB 15-R is classified as an active product with enhanced compliance certifications (ROHS3 Compliant vs. RoHS non-compliant), making it the preferred choice for new designs and replacements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3SB 15-R is the appropriate selection for all applications currently using or requiring the 3SB 15. The substitute part maintains complete electrical and mechanical compatibility while offering the following advantages:

• Active product status ensures continued availability and supply chain reliability
• ROHS3 compliance meets current environmental and regulatory requirements
• cULus certification (vs. UL) provides expanded North American approval scope
• Identical electrical performance and thermal characteristics guarantee drop-in replacement capability

For systems currently operating with the obsolete 3SB 15, transition to the 3SB 15-R is recommended to ensure long-term component availability and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3SB 15-R be used as a direct replacement for the 3SB 15?

A: Yes. The 3SB 15-R is a direct substitute with identical current rating (15 A), voltage rating (125 V AC), fuse type (Cartridge, Glass), response time (Slow Blow), package dimensions (3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4"), breaking capacity (10 kA), and thermal characteristics. Physical and electrical compatibility is complete.

Q: What is the difference between the 3SB 15 and 3SB 15-R?

A: The primary differences are product status and compliance certifications. The 3SB 15 is obsolete with RoHS non-compliant status, while the 3SB 15-R is an active product with ROHS3 compliance. Both parts share identical electrical specifications and mechanical dimensions.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns when switching from 3SB 15 to 3SB 15-R?

A: No compatibility concerns exist. Both parts require the same 3AB or 3AG fuse holder and operate within the same temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C). The DC cold resistance (0.006 Ohms) and melting I²t value (2123) are identical.

Q: What fuse holders are compatible with the 3SB 15-R?

A: The 3SB 15-R is designed for use with 3AB and 3AG fuse holders. The physical dimensions (0.250" Dia x 1.252" L) match the standard 1/4" x 1-1/4" cartridge fuse format.

Q: Is the 3SB 15-R suitable for new product designs?

A: Yes. The 3SB 15-R is classified as an active product with current compliance certifications (ROHS3, CE, CSA, cULus, PSE), making it the appropriate choice for new designs requiring a 15A 125VAC slow-blow glass cartridge fuse.